Belfast Zoo Opens Reptile And Amphibian House

Belfast Zoo has opened its newly renovated and extended reptile and amphibian house.

The zoo's reptile and amphibian house has welcomed more than 15 new species, including critically endangered frogs such as golden mantella, mossy frogs and lemur leaf frog.

Visitors to Belfast Zoo can also see new reptile species including frilled lizard, the venomous Mexican beaded lizard, Jamaican boas and yellow-headed day gecko.

Belfast Zoo Manager, Alyn Cairns, said: "Belfast Zoo is thrilled to open our newly renovated and extended reptile and amphibian house. Reptiles have walked the earth for more than 340 million years, even outliving the dinosaurs, but many reptile species are facing increasing threats in their natural habitat and are being driven to the edge of extinction. Conservation is one of Belfast Zoo’s primary aims, so we sought to develop new exhibits as well as expanding our collection to include more than fifteen new species which have not previously been held at the zoo. Investment in our reptile and amphibian house shows commitment to both the European Associations of Zoos and Aquaria regional collection plans for reptiles and the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria world conservation strategy. Our new reptile and amphibian house not only provides exciting habitats for the species but it also features a 'reptile nursery' which will be utilised as the animals breed and the population of the house grows."

(CD)